New Padre Song Sung-mun on Joining His Idol Machado and Challenging Ace Paul Skenes

Fresh off signing a four-year deal with the San Diego Padres, KBO star Song Sung-mun landed at Incheon International Airport on Tuesday, outlining his two biggest goals for his MLB debut: playing alongside his childhood idol, Manny Machado, and stepping into the batter's box against reigning Cy Young winner Paul Skenes. For Song, his major league journey is starting with a mix of admiration and ambition.

From Fan to Teammate: The Machado Connection

When asked by reporters which new teammate he's most excited to meet, Song didn't hesitate. “I’d have to go with Manny Machado,” he said, according to Yonhap News. “He has been a superstar on this team and I've been following his career since my school days.” At just 33, Machado is a seven-time All-Star and one of the league's most decorated infielders.

Machado also has a close bond with one of Song's former teammates, Kim Ha-seong, who played for the Padres from 2021 to 2024. The two were known for their chemistry on the left side of the infield, creating a friendly bridge for Song as he joins the clubhouse.

The Ultimate Test: Facing Skenes' Fastball

Looking beyond his own team, Song named Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes as the pitcher he most wants to face. “Paul Skenes has been the best pitcher lately, and I'm curious to see him pitch in person,” Song stated. Skenes built his Cy Young campaign on a blistering fastball that regularly hits 100 mph. His average four-seamer velocity of 98.2 mph would rank 15th in MLB, highlighting the elite competition Song will face.

But Song is ready for the challenge. In the KBO this year, he was a prolific fastball hitter, posting a .358 batting average and a .603 slugging percentage against the pitch. “If I hadn't been confident in my ability to hit fastballs, then I wouldn't even have tried to go to MLB,” he said. “But having confidence is one thing. I will have to prepare myself the best I can.”

A Rookie's Mindset on a New Number

Despite his KBO stardom, Song is embracing his rookie status. His former number, 24, is currently worn by Padres teammate Will Wagner. Unlike some veterans who offer expensive gifts to get their old number, Song is taking a humble approach. “I will take whatever number is available,” he said with a smile. “I am fairly open-minded when it comes to the number.”